And it’s understood that Benitez has set out a summer recruitment plan that will see Newcastle significantly strengthened in the next transfer window.

He wants six first-team ready players to transform a strong Championship side into one that can cope with the step up and won’t be looking over their shoulders like the three sides promoted last season.

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Benitez is keen on strengthening the spine of United’s side, which means a centre-back, striker and a central midfielder. A winger to replace Christian Atsu, who looks unlikely to sign permanently, and to usurp Yoan Gouffran is also a priority.

Newcastle’s big hope in the summer is that they can work the market with a bit of savvy. Newcastle are looking for players with the potential to get better but also the discipline to fit into a system that has worked well for Benitez next season.

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United will have funds but they’ll have to think smart. That means an inevitable focus on the foreign market – although domestic targets are also being assessed. Newcastle have been watching Harry Maguire of Hull while Andre Gray of Burnley is another who appeals because of his contract situation.

It will be a tough task to bring in six players while maintaining a strong squad. But Benitez himself is a selling point for potential targets and initial meetings about recruitment seem to have gone well, with Mike Ashley seemingly positive about doing what it takes to keep the highly-rated boss.